Abstract expressionism

Definition

Abstract expressionism is an art movement that emerged in the United States in the 1940s and is characterized by its emphasis on spontaneous, automatic, or subconscious creation. Artists associated with this movement often sought to express emotional intensity and individuality through non-representational forms, using bold colors, dynamic brushwork, and a focus on the act of painting itself. This movement is linked to the broader avant-garde as it challenged traditional artistic norms and emphasized innovation and personal expression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Abstract expressionism was heavily influenced by European avant-garde movements like surrealism and cubism.
2. Prominent figures in abstract expressionism include Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, and Willem de Kooning, each contributing unique styles to the movement.
3. The movement gained international recognition after World War II, positioning New York City as a new center for modern art.
4. It rejected traditional techniques and subjects, favoring improvisation and personal expression over representational accuracy.
5. Abstract expressionism also laid the groundwork for later movements such as minimalism and conceptual art, influencing how art was created and perceived.

Review Questions

• How did abstract expressionism redefine traditional artistic techniques and practices?
  • Abstract expressionism redefined traditional artistic techniques by emphasizing spontaneity and individual expression over structured methods and representational forms. Artists began to focus on the process of painting itself, often using techniques like dripping and pouring paint to create dynamic compositions. This approach encouraged a break from conventions, allowing for more personal interpretations of emotional experiences through abstract forms.
• In what ways did the abstract expressionist movement reflect the cultural and political climate of post-World War II America?
  • The abstract expressionist movement reflected the cultural and political climate of post-World War II America by embodying themes of freedom, individualism, and emotional intensity. In a time marked by disillusionment after the war, artists sought to express their inner feelings through non-representational art, signaling a break from European dominance in the art world. The movement's emphasis on personal narrative mirrored broader societal shifts towards self-exploration and authenticity during this transformative period.
• Evaluate the impact of abstract expressionism on the development of contemporary art movements in the latter half of the 20th century.
  • Abstract expressionism had a profound impact on contemporary art movements by establishing new standards for artistic freedom and innovation. It opened doors for later movements such as minimalism and conceptual art, which continued to challenge traditional boundaries in their own ways. The emphasis on process over product in abstract expressionism also influenced contemporary artists to explore various mediums and practices, fostering an environment where diverse forms of artistic expression could thrive in the late 20th century.

Related terms

Surrealism: An artistic movement that sought to unlock the unconscious mind through dreamlike imagery and bizarre juxtapositions, influencing many abstract expressionists.

Action Painting: A technique associated with abstract expressionism where paint is spontaneously dribbled, splashed, or smeared onto the canvas, emphasizing the physical act of painting.

Color Field Painting: A style within abstract expressionism that focuses on large fields of color and a sense of flatness, often associated with artists like Mark Rothko.